Joan Jett removed from Thanksgiving Day parade float over backlash

Organisers of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade in New York City have bowed to pressure and removed rocker Joan Jett from performing on the float representing the U.S. state of South Dakota. Officials from local government and the agriculture community slammed plans for Jett to appear on the float promoting South Dakota and the Mount Rushmore National Memorial due to her longtime vegetarianism and outspoken support of animal-rights charities.
Some residents claimed her views clash with the opinions of the majority of those living in the state, where cattle farming is a key local industry.
Now Macy’s bosses have decided to move Jett to a different float to quell the backlash.
Orlando Veras, Macy’s parade spokesman, says, “The Parade has never taken on, promoted or otherwise engaged in social commentary, political debate, or other forms of advocacy, no matter how worthy. Macy’s intention is only to provide a range of entertaining elements and performers free of endorsements or agendas.”
A new performer will be announced before the annual event later this month (28Nov13).